Milo Knockout rugby final decision on venue today

By Shamseer Jaleel

The Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Football Association (SLSRFA) will meet today at 10 a.m. to decide on the venue of the Milo Knockout rugby final encounter which will take place on 9 July between unbeaten Isipathana and Royal.

At the inception SLSFRA decided to host the matches at CR & FC and Royal. Isipathana College and S. Thomas’ College both objected citing unfair advantage for Royal. In case Royal being one of the team in the middle, then they decided to host at Longdon Place. But later on due to security of players and officials it was decided to host the two semi-finals and the final at the Royal Sports Complex. Sponsors of the tournament Nestle too wanted to host at the Royal Complex.

SLSRFA Secretary Denzil Darling told Daily FT: “We have received a letter from Isipathana to change the venue of the final from Royal Sports Complex due to the unfair advantage their opponents Royal will have since it’s their home grounds. But the Council of the SLSRFA decided not to change the venue. Today’s meeting at Lumbini College will be very vital and we have invited Isipathana rugby committee for the meeting.”

Isipathana rugby committee was of the view that if SLSRA decided to play at Royal Complex, Isipathana would pull out of the final.